The RecentPast EPS 11:Nicky Prince

Nicky Prince, also known as Siliman Musa Dima, is a renowned South Sudanese singer and songwriter. He grew up in refugee camps in northern Uganda, facing significant educational challenges due to frequent relocations and financial issues. Despite these obstacles, he excelled academically and found solace in music, initially singing to comfort his mother. He formed the group Blue Culture and later Hard Life Preachers in Khartoum, recording songs with downloaded beats. Upon returning to South Sudan, he co-founded Hard Life Avenue with Murye Alex AKA Mantani , focusing on music that reflected resilience and shared struggles.

Their debut album, "Lost Culture" (2012), eventually gained popularity, especially in Yei, and later throughout South Sudan. Collaborations with Producer Linus, who joined the band, led to several hits, solidifying their status in the South Sudanese music scene and prompting a name change to Hard Life Avenue Stars. Their song "Yau De" achieved widespread acclaim. Nicky Prince values authenticity and simplicity, avoiding comparisons with international artists to maintain a unique identity.

The tragic loss of Mantani in an accident in 2021 deeply impacted Nicky Prince and Linus. Despite their grief, they continued to honor Mantani's legacy through their music. Nicky also discusses the challenges of balancing his music career, personal life, and day job, acknowledging his wife's support and his colleagues' eventual recognition of his musical success.